Refrigeration system having a variable speed compressor

ABSTRACT

A two-stage cascade refrigeration system is provided having a first refrigeration stage and a second refrigeration stage. The first refrigeration stage defines a first fluid circuit for circulating a first refrigerant, and has a first compressor, a condenser, and a first expansion device that is in fluid communication with the first fluid circuit. The second refrigeration stage defines a second fluid circuit for circulating a second refrigerant, with the second refrigeration stage having a second compressor, a second expansion device, and an evaporator that is in fluid communication with the second fluid circuit. A heat exchanger is in fluid communication with the first and second fluid circuits to exchange heat between the first and second refrigerants. At least one of the first or second compressors is a variable speed compressor.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to refrigeration systems and, more particularly, to two-stage cascade refrigeration systems.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Two-stage cascade refrigeration systems are known for cooling spaces such as the interior of cabinets, for example, to temperatures well below zero degrees centigrade, such as temperatures below −40° C., for example. For example, freezers of the type known as ultra-low temperature freezers (“ULT's”) are known to use this type of refrigeration system and are used cool cabinet interiors to temperatures as low as about −80° C. or even lower.

Refrigeration systems of this type are known to include two stages circulating respective first and second refrigerants. The first stage transfers energy (i.e., heat) from the first refrigerant to the surrounding environment through a condenser, while the second refrigerant of the second stage receives energy from the cooled space (e.g., a cabinet interior) through an evaporator. Heat is transferred from the second refrigerant to the first refrigerant through a heat exchanger that is in fluid communication with the two stages of the refrigeration system.

Conventional two-cascade refrigeration systems utilize compressors each having a single, fixed speed, and conventionally having the same maximum capacity. In this regard, operation of the system may entail simply activating and deactivating each of the two compressors at various times. The ability of systems of this type to attain a uniform temperature in the cooled space, however, is limited, and the efficiency of operating such systems is also limited, as is the life expectancy of the systems themselves. In addition, operating one or both of the compressors at maximum capacity may be detrimental, while operating one or both of the compressors at a capacity lower than the maximum capacity for that compressor results in operational inefficiencies. Further, conventional two-cascade refrigeration systems are known to operate at a single predetermined level of noise during steady-state operation.

It would be desirable, therefore, to provide a refrigeration system that addresses these and other problems associated with conventional two-stage cascade refrigeration systems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one embodiment, a two-stage cascade refrigeration system is provided having a first refrigeration stage and a second refrigeration stage. The first refrigeration stage defines a first fluid circuit for circulating a first refrigerant, and has a first compressor, a condenser, and a first expansion device that is in fluid communication with the first fluid circuit. The second refrigeration stage defines a second fluid circuit for circulating a second refrigerant, with the second refrigeration stage having a second compressor, a second expansion device, and an evaporator that is in fluid communication with the second fluid circuit. A heat exchanger is in fluid communication with the first and second fluid circuits to exchange heat between the first and second refrigerants. At least one of the first or second compressors is a variable speed compressor.

In specific embodiments, each of the first and second compressors is a variable speed compressor. The first compressor may have a first maximum capacity and the second compressor may have a second maximum capacity, with the second maximum capacity being, in some embodiments, less than the first maximum capacity, and being, in other embodiments, substantially equal to the first maximum capacity.

In embodiments where the second compressor is a variable speed compressor, the system may include at least one controller that is operatively coupled to the first and second compressors for independently controlling operation of the compressors, and a sensor that is operatively coupled to the at least one controller. The sensor may, for example, be configured to sense a temperature of the first refrigerant at an outlet of the heat exchanger, sense a discharge pressure of the first or second refrigerants, or sense a discharge temperature or a suction temperature of the first refrigerant, and to generate a signal that is indicative of the sensed temperature or pressure to the at least one controller, with the at least one controller being operable to vary the speed of the second compressor in response to the signal.

In other specific embodiments, each of the first and second compressors is a variable speed compressor and the system includes a cabinet having an interior and a door that provides access into the interior, and at least one controller that is operatively coupled to the first and second compressors for independently controlling operation thereof. A sensor is operatively coupled to the at least one controller and is configured to sense a condition of the door and to generate a signal that is indicative of the sensed condition to the at least one controller, with the at least one controller being operable to vary the speed of at least one of the first or second compressors in response to the signal. The system may alternatively or additionally include a sensor that is configured to sense the temperature of ambient air proximate the condenser and to generate a signal to the at least one controller that is indicative of the sensed temperature, with the at least one controller being operable, in response to the signal, to vary the speed of the at least one of the first or second compressors.

In specific embodiments, the system includes a sensor that is operatively coupled to the at least one controller and which is configured to sense a temperature of the first refrigerant at an outlet of the heat exchanger and to generate a signal that is indicative of the sensed temperature to the at least one controller. The at least one controller is operable to compare the sensed temperature to a pre-determined threshold temperature above which the second compressor is not activated by the at least one controller. Additionally, the system may include a sensor that is configured to sense the temperature of ambient air proximate the condenser and to generate a second signal indicative of the sensed temperature to the at least one controller. The at least one controller is operable, in response to the second signal, to vary the pre-determined threshold temperature above which the second compressor is not activated by the at least one controller.

The system may include a cabinet having an interior and a sensor operatively coupled to the at least one controller and which is configured to sense the temperature of the interior of the cabinet and to generate a signal indicative of the cabinet interior temperature to the at least one controller, with the at least one controller being operable, in response to this signal, to delay activation of the second compressor. The controller of some embodiments may vary the speed of a variable speed fan directing air across the condenser, for example, in response to a signal received from a sensor configured to sense the temperature of ambient air proximate the condenser.

The system may include a pair of sensors operatively coupled to the at least one controller and which are configured to respectively sense the discharge pressures of the first and second refrigerants and to generate respective signals to the at least one controller indicative of the sensed discharge pressures. The at least one controller is operable, in response to the signals, to vary the speed of at least one of the first or second compressors.

The system may additionally or alternatively include a first plurality of sensors for sensing one or more of the suction temperature, sump temperature, discharge temperature, or discharge pressure of the first refrigerant, and a second plurality of sensors for sensing one or more of the suction temperature, sump temperature, discharge temperature or discharge pressure of the second refrigerant. The first and second pluralities of sensors may be configured to generate respective signals to the at least one controller which are indicative of the sensed temperatures or pressures, with the at least one controller being operable, in response to the signals, to vary the speed of at least one of the first or second compressors.

The system may also include a control interface operatively coupled to the at least one controller for selecting among different pre-determined noise level modes of operation of the refrigeration system. The controller may include a steady-state operation mode that includes simultaneous operation of the first and second compressors.

In yet another embodiment, a method is provided for operating a refrigeration system. The method includes circulating a first refrigerant through a first compressor, a condenser, and a first expansion device of a first stage of the refrigeration system. A second refrigerant is circulated through a second compressor, a second expansion device, and an evaporator of a second stage of the refrigeration system. Heat is exchanged between the first and second refrigerants and the speed of at least one of the first or second compressors is selectively varied to control the flow of at least one of the first or second refrigerants.

The system disclosed herein is, accordingly, capable of attaining a relative long life expectancy, operating in an efficient manner, and attaining a uniform temperature distribution in the cooled space. Further, the system disclosed herein is capable of quickly recovering from unexpected high-load conditions resulting, for example, from the storing of a relatively warm item in the cooled space.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with a general description of the invention given above, and the detailed description of the embodiments given below, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary refrigeration unit.

FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of a refrigeration system for cooling a cabinet interior of the unit of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is schematic representation of a staging protocol for operation of the system of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a schematic representation of steady-state protocol for operation of the system of FIG. 2.

FIG. 5 is a schematic representation of another protocol for operation of the system of FIG. 2.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

With reference to the figures, and more specifically to FIG. 1, a refrigeration unit in the form of an ultra-low temperature freezer (“ULT”) 10 is illustrated. Various aspects of the exemplary freezer 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention are described and illustrated in commonly assigned U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______ assigned to the assignee of the present application, entitled REFRIGERATION SYSTEM MOUNTED WITHIN A DECK (Attorney Docket TFLED-227AUS), the disclosure of which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

The freezer 10 of FIG. 1 includes a deck 14 that supports a cabinet 16 thereabove, for storing items that require cooling to temperatures of about −80° C. or lower, for example. The cabinet 16, in turn, includes a cabinet housing 16 a and a door 16 b providing access into an interior 16 c of the cabinet 16. The deck 14 supports one or more components that jointly define a two-stage cascade refrigeration system 20 (FIG. 2) that thermally interacts with cabinet 16 to cool the interior 16 c thereof.

With reference to FIG. 2, a schematic representation of refrigeration system 20 is illustrated. System 20 is made up of a first stage 24 and a second stage 26 respectively defining first and second circuits for circulating a first refrigerant 34 and a second refrigerant 36. The first stage 24 transfers energy (i.e., heat) from the first refrigerant 34 to the surrounding environment 40, while the second refrigerant 36 of the second stage 26 receives energy from the a cabinet interior 16 c. Heat is transferred from the second refrigerant 36 to the first refrigerant 34 through a heat exchanger 44 that is in fluid communication with the first and second stages 24, 26 of the refrigeration system 20.

The first stage 24 includes, in sequence, a first compressor 50, a condenser 54, and a first expansion device 58. A fan 62 directs ambient air across the condenser 54 through a filter 54 a and facilitates the transfer of heat from the first refrigerant 34 to the surrounding environment 40. The second stage 26 includes, also in sequence, a second compressor 70, a second expansion device 74, and an evaporator 78. The evaporator 78 is in thermal communication with the interior 16 c of cabinet 16 (FIG. 1) such that heat is transferred from the interior 16 c to the evaporator 78, thereby cooling the interior 16 c. The heat exchanger 44 is in fluid communication with the first stage 24 between the first expansion device 58 and the first compressor 50. Further, the heat exchanger 44 is in fluid communication with the second stage 26 between the second compressor 70 and the second expansion device 74.

In operation, the second refrigerant 36 receives heat from the interior 16 c through the evaporator 78 and flows from the evaporator 78 to the second compressor 70 through a conduit 90. A suction/accumulator device 92 is in fluid communication with the conduit 90 to pass the second refrigerant 36 in gaseous form to the second compressor 70, while accumulating excessive amounts of the same in liquid form and feeding it to the second compressor 70 at a controlled rate. From the second compressor 70, the compressed second refrigerant 36 flows through a conduit 96 and into the heat exchanger 44 thermally communicating the first and second stages 24, 26 with one another. The second refrigerant 36 enters the heat exchanger 44 in gas form and transfers heat to the first refrigerant 34 as the second refrigerant condenses. In this regard, the flow of the first refrigerant 34 may, for example, be counter-flow relative to the second refrigerant 36, so as to maximize the rate of heat transfer. In one specific, non-limiting example, the heat exchanger 44 is in the form of a brazed plate heat exchanger, vertically oriented within the deck 14 (FIG. 1), and designed to maximize the amount of turbulent flow of the first and second refrigerants 34, 36 within heat exchanger 44, which in turn maximizes the heat transfer from the condensing second refrigerant 36 to the evaporating first refrigerant 34. Other types or configurations of heat exchangers are possible as well.

The second refrigerant 36 exits the heat exchanger 44, in liquid form, through an outlet 44 a thereof and flows through a conduit 102, through a filter/dryer unit 103, then through the second expansion device 74, and then back to the evaporator 78 of the second stage 26. The second stage 26 of this exemplary embodiment also includes an oil loop 104 for lubricating the second compressor 70. Specifically, the oil loop 104 includes an oil separator 106 in fluid communication with conduit 96 and an oil return line 108 directing oil back into second compressor 70. Additionally, or alternatively, the second stage 26 may include a de-superheater device 110 to cool down the discharge stream of the second refrigerant 36 and which is in fluid communication with conduit 96 upstream of the heat exchanger 44.

As discussed above, the first refrigerant 34 flows through the first stage 24. Specifically, the first refrigerant 34 receives heat from the second refrigerant 36 flowing through the heat exchanger 44, exits the heat exchanger 44 in gas form through an outlet 44 b thereof and flows through a pair of conduits 114, 115 towards the first compressor 50. A suction/accumulator device 116 is positioned between conduits 114 and 115 to pass the first refrigerant 34 in gaseous form to the first compressor 50, while accumulating excessive amounts of the same in liquid form and feeding it to the first compressor 50 at a controlled rate. From the first compressor 50, the compressed first refrigerant 34 flows through a conduit 118 and into the condenser 54. The first refrigerant 34 in condenser 54 transfers heat to the surrounding environment 40 as the first refrigerant condenses before flowing in liquid form through a pair of conduits 122, 123, through a filter/dryer unit 126, and into the first expansion device 58, where the first refrigerant 34 undergoes a pressure drop. From the first expansion device 58, the first refrigerant 34 flows though a conduit 127 back into the heat exchanger 44, entering the same in liquid form.

With continued reference to FIG. 2, at least one of the first or second compressors 50, 70 of this embodiment is a variable speed compressor. In a specific embodiment, the first and second compressors 50, 70 may have different maximum capacities. For example, and without limitation, the second compressor 70 may have a maximum capacity that is less than the maximum capacity of the first compressor 50. Alternatively, the maximum capacities of the first and second compressors 50, 70 may be substantially equal to one another. Moreover, operation of the system 20 may be designed such that, in steady-state mode, one or both of the compressors 50, 70 operates at the maximum capacity or at less than its maximum capacity, which may be desirable, for example, to maximize the life expectancy of the compressors 50, 70.

System 20 includes an exemplary controller 130 that is operatively coupled to each of the first and second compressors 50, 70 for independently controlling each of the compressors 50, 70. While this embodiment illustrates a single controller 130, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that system 20 may have any other number of controllers instead. An exemplary interface 132 is operatively coupled to the controller 130 to enable interaction with the controller by a user. Such interaction may include, for example, choosing from among different modes of operation of system 20. For example, and without limitation, different modes of operation may be associated with different maximum normally accepted noise levels of the system 20 during steady-state operation, such as noise standards issued by OSHA, for example, different temperature ranges for each of the stages 24, 26, and/or different temperature settings for the cooled space (e.g., cabinet interior 16 c). More specifically, the same freezer designed for operation in an enclosed laboratory may be set by the user not to exceed a particular noise level (which could result in one or both compressors being limited to a particular percentage of maximum speed and, if a variable speed fan is used, its speed as well). The same freezer operated in a large area could be set or reset to allow for a higher percentage of maximum speed if the noise level is of particular concern to the user. Other additional or alternative preferred operating characteristics of the ULT may, however, be used to define operating parameters of the system 20.

As explained in further detail below, a plurality of sensors S₁ through S₁₈ are each operatively coupled to the controller 130 to sense different properties of the one or both of the refrigerants 34, 36 along the first and/or second stages 24, 26, the temperature of the ambient air surrounding the system 20, or that of the interior 16 c of cabinet 16, and/or the condition of the door 16 b (i.e., open or closed) (FIG. 1). These sensors are configured to generate respective signals to the controller 130 that are indicative of the sensed property or condition, such that the controller 130 may, in turn, generate respective commands impacting operation of the system 20.

When the system 20 is first started or requires restarting due, for example, to revised cooling requirements, staging of the first and second stages is effected. An exemplary staging procedure or protocol is illustrated with continued reference to FIG. 2 and with further reference to the flow chart of FIG. 3. Block 150 represents the start of the staging procedure, specifically through activation (i.e., turning on) of the first compressor 50 and ends with activation (i.e., turning on) of the second compressor 70 (block 160). At block 152, the controller 130 receives a signal from a sensor S₁ that is configured to sense the temperature of the first refrigerant 34 at the outlet 44 b of heat exchanger 44. At block 154, the controller 130 compares the sensed temperature of the first refrigerant 34 to a predetermined threshold temperature T_(th). If the sensed temperature is less than or equal to the threshold temperature T_(th), (block 156), the controller 130 activates the second stage 26 by activating the second compressor 70 (block 160). In certain forms of the invention, the controller 130 could cause the second compressor 70 to initially operate at a lower speed and then increase to a higher maximum speed, depending upon operator settings for noise control and the like.

In addition to the staging protocol illustrated in FIG. 3, the staging protocol may additionally include other features. For example, the staging protocol may include, at block 152, the controller 130 receiving a signal from a sensor S₂ that is configured to sense the temperature of ambient air proximate the condenser 54 and to send a signal indicative of the sensed temperature to the controller 130. At block 166, the controller 130 adjusts (i.e., increases or decreases) the threshold temperature T_(th) according to a predetermined algorithm (block 167) taking the sensed ambient air temperature as an input. For example, at unusually high ambient temperatures, the start up of the second compressor 70 could be intentionally delayed or the speed of the second compressor 70 upon start-up could be reduced (e.g., to about 40% rather than about 50% of full capacity). Additionally or alternatively, at block 152, the controller 130 may receive a signal from a sensor S₃ that is configured to sense a temperature of the interior 16 c of cabinet 16 and to send a signal to the controller 130 that is indicative of the sensed temperature. At block 174, the controller 130 prevents activation of the second compressor 70 if the sensed temperature is higher than a predetermined value (block 175), such that the heat exchanger 44 is provided adequate time to cool down to a predetermined level. Effectively, this delay (block 174) in activation of the second compressor 70 prevents overwhelming of the heat exchanger 44, which may be desirable to increase the life expectancy of system 20. Alternatively or additionally, the second compressor 70 could be started-up at a lower speed (e.g., about 30%-40% of capacity rather than 50% of capacity) in response to a higher cabinet interior temperature.

With reference to FIG. 4, an exemplary steady-state operation of the system 20 is schematically illustrated. In the exemplary embodiment of the figure, steady-state operation mode of system 20 includes simultaneously operating both of the compressors 50, 70 most or all of the time. To this end, the system 20 operates under one or more algorithms that maintain a balance between the first and second stages 24, 26 such that, for example, the second stage load (from heat transferred from cabinet interior 16 c) never exceeds the maximum capacity of the first stage 24 to remove load (i.e., heat). The following description is especially applicable when both compressors 50, 70 are of the variable speed type, but can be adapted to embodiments in which only one compressor (e.g., the second compressor 70) is of variable speed and having the other compressor (e.g., the first compressor 50) turned on and off as required. In the event both of the compressors 50, 70 are variable speed compressors, it is likely that both compressors 50, 70 will be on, with operation of one or both compressors being controlled to obtain a desired operating characteristic.

At block 180, the controller 130 receives a signal from sensor S₁ sensing the temperature of first refrigerant 34 at outlet 44 b of the heat exchanger 44. At block 182, the controller 130 varies, in response to the signal from sensor S₁ and in accordance with a predetermined steady-state algorithm (block 181), the speed (e.g., the rotational speed in RPM) of one or both of the first or second compressors 50, 70, to thereby control, for example, the load that is transferred to the second stage 26. In this regard, a sensor S₄ may be configured to monitor the speed of the second compressor 70 and to generate a corresponding signal to the controller 130 to enable controlling of the speed of the second compressor 70.

At block 184, controller 130 determines whether a high-load condition is present in the system 20, for example, if the temperature of the interior 16 c of cabinet 16 has had a step change (e.g., a sudden, relatively large increase). If such condition is detected, at block 186, the controller 130 may override the algorithm illustrated by blocks 181 and 182, and replace operation of system 20 with a high-load algorithm, described in further detail below.

With continued reference to FIG. 4, the controller 130 may, in addition or as an alternative to receiving signals from sensor S₁, receive a signal (block 180) from a sensor S₅ configured to sense the discharge pressure of the second refrigerant 36 and to send a signal indicative of the sensed pressure to the controller 130. The sensed discharge pressure of the second refrigerant 36 may be indicative of an imbalance condition in the system 20 caused, for example, by a high-load condition. If a predetermined pressure is sensed by sensor S₅, the controller 130 may, as explained above, (block 186), override the algorithm illustrated by blocks 181 and 182 and replace operation of system 20 with the high-load algorithm (block 186).

In addition or as an alternative to the sensing provided by sensors S₁ and/or S₅, one or more sensors S₆, S₇, S₈ are operatively coupled to the controller 130 and are respectively configured to sense a discharge pressure, discharge temperature, and/or suction temperature of the first refrigerant 34. Each of these sensors S₆, S₇, S₈ is configured to generate a signal indicative of the sensed property or condition of the first refrigerant 34 to the controller 130 (block 180). The sensed property or condition of the first refrigerant 34 may be indicative of an imbalance condition in the system caused, for example, by a high-load condition. If a predetermined property or characteristic is sensed by one or more of the sensors S₆, S₇, S₈, the controller 130 may, as explained above, override the algorithm illustrated by blocks 181 and 182 and replace operation of system 20 with the high-load algorithm (block 186).

As explained above, under certain conditions, the controller 130 may override the algorithm (block 181) used during steady-state operation of system 20 and substitute for it a high-load algorithm. In this regard, and with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, the controller 130 may receive, at block 180, one or more signals from various sensors of system 20, with these signals being indicative of a high-load condition. More specifically, for example, a high-load condition may be present if a relatively warm item is placed in the interior 16 c of cabinet 16. To this end, the controller 130 may receive a signal from the sensor S₃ indicative of a rise in temperature of the interior 16 c of cabinet 16. In a specific embodiment, the controller 130 may calculate a slope corresponding to the rise in temperature of the interior 16 c over time, based on the signal from sensor S₃, and compare the same (block 194) to a predetermined threshold slope. In response to receiving this signal, and more specifically in response to the comparison, the controller may, at block 186, substitute the high-load algorithm for the steady-state algorithm controlling operation of system 20. Under the high-load algorithm, in one specific embodiment, the controller 130 may increase (block 202) the speed of one or both of the compressors 50, 70.

In another example, the controller 130 may receive (block 180) a signal from a sensor S₉ in the form of a switch, for example, configured to sense the condition of the door 16 b of cabinet 16. In response to a signal from sensor S₉ indicating, for example, that the door 16 b is open or closed, the controller 130 may at block 186, substitute the high-load algorithm for the steady-state algorithm (block 181) controlling operation of system 20. Under the high-load algorithm, as explained above, the controller 130 may for example increase (block 202) the speed of one or both of the compressors 50, 70.

In an exemplary, yet non-limiting variation to the above-discussed processing of the signal received by the controller 130 from sensor S₉, the controller 130 may calculate the time the door 16 b remains in a predetermined condition (e.g., open) and compare this calculated time to a threshold value (block 194), in response to which the controller follows the protocol described above illustrated by blocks 186 and 202. It is contemplated that sensor S₉ may be configured instead to sense the condition of door 16 b over a predetermined period of time, and to generate a signal to the controller 130 that is indicative of this condition over the predetermined period of time, in which case the system 20 obviates the comparison to a threshold value otherwise carried out by the controller 130 at block 194. For example, and without limitation, an exemplary sensor S₉ capable of sensing the condition of the door 16 b over time may take the form of a switch and timer combination.

In yet another example, the controller 130 may receive (block 180) a signal from the sensor S₂ that is configured to sense the temperature of ambient air proximate the condenser 54 and to send a signal indicative of the sensed temperature to the controller 130. If the received signal is indicative of a temperature that exceeds a predetermined threshold (block 194), the controller follows the protocol described above illustrated by blocks 186 and 202.

In addition or as an alternative to the above, the high-load algorithm may be triggered by the controller 130 receiving (block 180) a signal from the sensor S₆ indicative of a sensed discharge pressure of the first refrigerant 34 and/or from the sensor S₅ indicative of a sensed discharge pressure of the second refrigerant 36. In this regard, the sensed discharge pressure of the first or second refrigerants 34, 36 may be indicative of a high-load condition and compared by the controller 130 (block 194) to respective threshold pressures beyond which controller 130 would follow the protocol illustrated by blocks 186 and 202.

With particular reference to FIG. 5, the high-load algorithm may include, in specific embodiments, increasing the speed of the fan 62 directing air across the condenser 54 (block 210). This increase in speed is facilitated by the use of a variable speed fan 62. This increase in speed of fan 62 temporarily increases the rate of heat transfer from the first refrigerant 36 to the surrounding ambient 40, which results in a quicker recovery of system 20 back towards the steady-state mode of operation. Usually, but not always, an increase in the speed of fan 62 occurs concurrently with an increase in the speed of first compressor 50; however, under conditions of high ambient temperature, the speed of the fan 62 may be increased proportionately more than the speed of the first compressor 50. As indicated above, the speeds of the first compressor 50 and fan 62 may be limited based on noise control or other factors, except when extraordinary conditions are sensed.

Referring again to FIG. 2, it is contemplated that one or more other sensors S₁₀-S₁₈ may provide inputs to the controller 130 which would, in response to a signal received from one of the sensors S₁₀-S₁₈, vary the speed of the fan 62, vary the speed of one or both of the compressors 50, 70, or follow any of the other protocols described above. For example, and without limitations, a sensor S₁₀ and a sensor S₁₁ may respectively be configured to sense the sump temperature and suction temperature of the first refrigerant 34, while a sensor S₁₂ and a sensor S₁₃ may respectively be configured to sense the sump temperature and suction temperature of the second refrigerant 36. Additionally or alternatively, a sensor S₁₄ may be configured to sense the discharge temperature of the second refrigerant 36, a sensor S₁₅ may be configured to sense the temperature of the first refrigerant 34 at an inlet 44 c to the heat exchanger 44, a pair of sensors S₁₆, S₁₇ may be configured to sense the temperature of the second refrigerant 36 respectively at an inlet 78 a and outlet 78 b of evaporator 78, and/or a sensor S₁₈ may be configured to sense the speed (e.g. rotational speed, in RPM) of the first compressor 50. Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that the locations and configurations of these additional sensors are merely exemplary rather than limiting, and it is contemplated that other sensors may be present in system 20 in addition or as an alternative to those described above. In this regard, additional sensors may be configured to detect conditions or properties of system 20 or its surroundings that are not expressly described herein, and still fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

While the present invention has been illustrated by a description of various embodiments and while these embodiments have been described in considerable detail, it is not the intention of the applicant to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Additional advantages and modifications will readily appear to those skilled in the art. The invention in its broader aspects is therefore not limited to the specific details, representative apparatus and method, and illustrative example shown and described. Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departing from the spirit or scope of applicant's general inventive concept. 

1. A two-stage cascade refrigeration system comprising: a first refrigeration stage defining a first fluid circuit for circulating a first refrigerant, the first refrigeration stage having a first compressor, a condenser, and a first expansion device in fluid communication with the first fluid circuit; a second refrigeration stage defining a second fluid circuit for circulating a second refrigerant, the second refrigeration stage having a second compressor, a second expansion device, and an evaporator in fluid communication with the second fluid circuit; and a heat exchanger in fluid communication with the first and second fluid circuits to exchange heat between the first and second refrigerants; wherein at least one of the first or second compressors is a variable speed compressor.
 2. The two-stage cascade refrigeration system of claim 1, wherein each of the first and second compressors is a variable speed compressor.
 3. The two-stage cascade refrigeration system of claim 2, wherein: the first compressor has a first maximum capacity and the second compressor has a second maximum capacity; and the second maximum capacity is less than the first maximum capacity.
 4. The two-stage cascade refrigeration system of claim 2, wherein: the first compressor has a first maximum capacity and the second compressor has a second maximum capacity; and the second maximum capacity is substantially equal to the first maximum capacity.
 5. The two-stage cascade refrigeration system of claim 1, wherein the second compressor is a variable speed compressor, the system further comprising: at least one controller operatively coupled to the first and second compressors for independently controlling operation thereof; and a sensor operatively coupled to the at least one controller, the sensor being configured to sense a temperature of the first refrigerant at an outlet of the heat exchanger and to generate a signal indicative of the sensed temperature to the at least one controller, the at least one controller being operable to vary the speed of the second compressor in response to the signal.
 6. The two-stage cascade refrigeration system of claim 1, wherein the second compressor is a variable speed compressor, the system further comprising: at least one controller operatively coupled to the first and second compressors for independently controlling operation thereof; and a sensor operatively coupled to the at least one controller, the sensor being configured to sense a discharge pressure of the first or second refrigerants and to generate a signal indicative of the sensed pressure to the at least one controller, the at least one controller being operable to vary the speed of the second compressor in response to the signal.
 7. The two-stage cascade refrigeration system of claim 1, wherein the second compressor is a variable speed compressor, the system further comprising: at least one controller operatively coupled to the first and second compressors for independently controlling operation thereof; and a sensor operatively coupled to the at least one controller, the sensor being configured to sense a discharge temperature or a suction temperature of the first refrigerant and to generate a signal indicative of the sensed discharge or suction temperature to the at least one controller, the at least one controller being operable to vary the speed of the second compressor in response to the signal.
 8. The two-stage cascade refrigeration system of claim 1, wherein each of the first and second compressors is a variable speed compressor, the system further comprising: a cabinet having an interior and a door providing access into the interior; at least one controller operatively coupled to the first and second compressors for independently controlling operation thereof; and a sensor operatively coupled to the at least one controller and configured to sense a condition of the door and to generate a signal indicative of the sensed condition to the at least one controller, the at least one controller being operable to vary the speed of at least one of the first or second compressors in response to the signal.
 9. The two-stage cascade refrigeration system of claim 8, wherein the sensor is configured to sense a condition of the door over a predetermined period of time and to generate a signal indicative of the condition of the door over the predetermined period of time to the at least one controller, the at least one controller being operable to vary the speed of at least one of the first or second compressors in response to the signal.
 10. The two-stage cascade refrigeration system of claim 1, further comprising: at least one controller operatively coupled to the first and second compressors for independently controlling operation thereof; and a sensor operatively coupled to the at least one controller and being configured to sense a temperature of ambient air proximate the condenser and to generate a signal to the at least one controller indicative of the sensed temperature, the at least one controller being operable, in response to the signal, to vary the speed of the at least one of the first or second compressors.
 11. The two-stage cascade refrigeration system of claim 1, further comprising: at least one controller operatively coupled to the first and second compressors for independently controlling operation thereof; and a sensor operatively coupled to the at least one controller and being configured to sense a temperature of the first refrigerant at an outlet of the heat exchanger and to generate a first signal indicative of the sensed temperature to the at least one controller, the at least one controller being operable to compare the sensed temperature to a predetermined threshold temperature above which the second compressor is not activated by the at least one controller.
 12. The two-stage cascade refrigeration system of claim 11, further comprising: a sensor operatively coupled to the at least one controller and being configured to sense the temperature of ambient air proximate the condenser and to generate a second signal indicative of the sensed temperature to the at least one controller, the at least one controller being operable, in response to the second signal, to vary the predetermined threshold temperature above which the second compressor is not activated by the at least one controller.
 13. The two-stage cascade refrigeration system of claim 11, further comprising: a cabinet having an interior; and a sensor operatively coupled to the at least one controller and being configured to sense the temperature of the interior of the cabinet and to generate a second signal indicative of the cabinet interior temperature to the at least one controller, the at least one controller being operable, in response to the second signal, to delay activation of the second compressor.
 14. The two-stage cascade refrigeration system of claim 1, wherein each of the first and second compressors is a variable speed compressor, the system further comprising: at least one controller operatively coupled to the first and second compressors for independently controlling operation thereof; a cabinet having an interior; and a sensor operatively coupled to the at least one controller and being configured to sense a temperature of the interior of the cabinet and to generate a signal indicative of the cabinet interior temperature to the at least one controller, the at least one controller being operable, in response to the signal, to vary the speed of at least one of the first or second compressors.
 15. The two-stage cascade refrigeration system of claim 1, further comprising: at least one controller operatively coupled to the first and second compressors for independently controlling operation thereof; a variable speed fan directing air across the condenser; and a sensor operatively coupled to the at least one controller and configured to sense a temperature of ambient air proximate the condenser and to generate a signal to the at least one controller indicative of the sensed temperature, the at least one controller being operable, in response to the signal, to vary the speed of the fan.
 16. The two-stage cascade refrigeration system of claim 1, further comprising: at least one controller operatively coupled to the first and second compressors for independently controlling operation thereof; and a pair of sensors operatively coupled to the at least one controller and configured to respectively sense the discharge pressures of the first and second refrigerants and to generate respective signals to the at least one controller indicative of the sensed pressures, the at least one controller being operable, in response to the signals, to vary the speed of at least one of the first or second compressors.
 17. The two-stage cascade refrigeration system of claim 1, wherein each of the first and second compressors is a variable speed compressor, the system further comprising: at least one controller operatively coupled to the first and second compressors for independently controlling operation thereof; a first plurality of sensors for sensing one or more of the suction temperature, sump temperature, discharge temperature, or discharge pressure of the first refrigerant; and a second plurality of sensors for sensing one or more of the suction temperature, sump temperature, discharge temperature, or discharge pressure of the second refrigerant, the first and second pluralities of sensors being configured to generate respective signals to the at least one controller indicative of the sensed temperatures or pressures, the at least one controller being operable, in response to the signals, to vary the speed of at least one of the first or second compressors.
 18. The two-stage cascade refrigeration system of claim 1, further comprising: at least one controller operatively coupled to the first and second compressors for independently controlling operation thereof; and a control interface operatively coupled to the at least one controller for selecting among different predetermined noise-level modes of operation of the refrigeration system.
 19. The two-stage cascade refrigeration system of claim 1, further comprising: at least one controller operatively coupled to the first and second compressors for independently controlling operation thereof, the at least one controller defining a steady-state operation mode, the steady-state operation mode including simultaneous operation of the first and second compressors.
 20. The two-stage cascade refrigeration system of claim 1, further comprising: a cabinet having an interior cooled by thermal interaction with the evaporator, the interaction operable to cool the interior to at least about −80° C.
 21. A method of operating a refrigeration system, comprising: circulating a first refrigerant through a first compressor, a condenser, and a first expansion device of a first stage of the refrigeration system; circulating a second refrigerant through a second compressor, a second expansion device, and an evaporator of a second stage of the refrigeration system; exchanging heat between the first and second refrigerants; selectively varying the speed of at least one of the first or second compressors to control the flow at least one of the first or second refrigerants.
 22. The method of claim 21, further comprising: selectively varying the speeds of both of the first and second compressors to respectively control the flow of the first and second refrigerants.
 23. The method of claim 21, wherein exchanging heat between the first and second refrigerants includes circulating the first and second refrigerants through a heat exchanger, the method further comprising: sensing a temperature of the first refrigerant at an outlet of the heat exchanger; generating a signal indicative of the sensed temperature; and varying the speed of the second compressor in response to the signal.
 24. The method of claim 21, further comprising: sensing a discharge pressure of the first or second refrigerant; generating a signal indicative of the sensed pressure; and varying the speed of the second compressor in response to the signal.
 25. The method of claim 21, further comprising: sensing a discharge temperature or a suction temperature of the first refrigerant; generating a signal indicative of the sensed temperature; and varying the speed of the second compressor in response to the signal.
 26. The method of claim 21, further comprising: providing a cabinet having an interior cooled by the refrigeration system, the cabinet having a door for accessing the interior of the cabinet; sensing a condition of the door; generating a signal indicative of the sensed condition; and varying the speed of at least one of the first or second compressors in response to the signal.
 27. The method of claim 21, further comprising: obtaining a cabinet having an interior cooled by the refrigeration system, the cabinet having a door for accessing the interior of the cabinet; sensing a condition of the door over a predetermined period of time; generating a signal indicative of sensed condition of the door over the predetermined period of time; and varying the speed of at least one of the first or second compressors in response to the signal.
 28. The method of claim 21, further comprising: sensing a temperature of ambient air proximate the condenser; generating a signal indicative of the sensed temperature; and varying the speed of at least one of the first or second compressors in response to the signal.
 29. The method of claim 21, wherein exchanging heat between the first and second refrigerants includes circulating the first and second refrigerants through a heat exchanger, the method further comprising: sensing a temperature of the first refrigerant at an outlet of the heat exchanger; generating a signal indicative of the sensed temperature; and comparing the sensed temperature to a predetermined threshold temperature above which the second compressor is inactive.
 30. The method of claim 29, further comprising: sensing a temperature of ambient air proximate the condenser; generating a second signal indicative of the sensed temperature; and varying, in response to the second signal, the predetermined threshold above which the second compressor is inactive.
 31. The method of claim 29, further comprising: obtaining a cabinet having an interior cooled by the refrigeration system; sensing a temperature of the interior of the cabinet; generating a second signal indicative of the sensed temperature; and delaying activation of the second compressor in response to the second signal.
 32. The method of claim 21, further comprising: obtaining a cabinet having an interior cooled by the refrigeration system; sensing a temperature of the interior of the cabinet; generating a signal indicative of the sensed temperature; and varying the speed of at least one of the first or second compressors in response to the signal.
 33. The method of claim 21, further comprising: directing air across the condenser; sensing the temperature of ambient air proximate the condenser; generating a signal indicative of the sensed temperature; and varying the speed of the air directed across the condenser in response to the signal.
 34. The method of claim 21, further comprising: sensing the discharge pressure of the first refrigerant; sensing the discharge pressure of the second refrigerant; generating respective signals indicative of the sensed pressures; and varying the speed of at least one of the first or second compressors in response to the signals.
 35. The method of claim 21, further comprising: sensing one or more of the suction temperature, sump temperature, discharge temperature, or discharge pressure of the first refrigerant; sensing one or more of the suction temperature, sump temperature, discharge temperature, or discharge pressure of the second refrigerant, generating respective signals indicative of the sensed temperature of pressure of the first and second refrigerants, respectively; varying the speed of at least one of the first or second compressors in response to the signals.
 36. The method of claim 21, further comprising: selecting among different predetermined noise-level modes of operation; and controlling operation of the first and second compressors in response to the selected mode.
 37. The method of claim 21, further comprising: simultaneously activating the first and second compressors to define a steady-state operation of the refrigeration system.
 38. The method of claim 21, further comprising: obtaining a cabinet having an interior cooled by the refrigeration system; and operating the refrigeration system to cool the interior of the cabinet to at least about −80° C. 